In this episode of the Expositors Collective Podcast, Mike Neglia is joined by Roberto Gazga, a hospice chaplain, lay preacher at Christ the King Reformed Baptist Church in Niles, Illinois, and host of the Urban Puritano podcast. Roberto is the author of Christ's Scope and Scepter: His Word, His World and is currently working on his forthcoming book, How to Preach Like a Puritan. Together, they explore Roberto’s journey into expository preaching, his theological evolution, and the unique perspective he brings to ministry through his work as a hospice chaplain.
Roberto doesn’t hold back when it comes to his concerns about the quadriga, the medieval method of interpreting Scripture in four layers (literal, allegorical, tropological, and anagogical). He finds it to be a confusing and, frankly, unnecessary system that muddies the waters of clear biblical interpretation. Instead, Roberto makes the case for a Christ-centered approach that’s as refreshing as it is practical. He brings up the idea of reading Scripture as a single, unified story where Christ is the star of the show—not buried under a pile of allegorical detours. If you’ve ever wondered how to preach Christ from all of Scripture without feeling like you’re walking on theological tightropes, Roberto’s insights will make you smile, think, and maybe even sigh in relief.
The conversation also highlights Roberto’s wisdom on pastoral care, drawing from his years of experience as a hospice chaplain. He shares practical advice for pastors making hospital visits, encouraging them to approach these situations with preparation, empathy, and the courage to lean into difficult moments. Roberto points out that a listening ear and a compassionate heart often open more doors than any pre-planned script. And when the moment is right, Scripture and prayer can transform even the most challenging conversations into opportunities for gospel hope. He and Mike share stories and insights that will leave you better equipped—and perhaps a bit less intimidated—about stepping into these sacred and sensitive spaces.
Roberto Gazga is a certified hospice chaplain in Chicago, where he earned a BA in theology from Moody Bible Institute. In his spare time, he produces written and podcast content for www.urbanpuritano.com related to the Bible, Reformed theology, preaching, and much more! He is also working on his forthcoming book, How to Preach Like a Puritan.
Christ's Scope and Scepter: His Word, His World:
https://www.amazon.com/Christs-Scope-Scepter-Word-World/dp/B0DL8HGMGQ/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VxpvIhfuh3OLlw9gM4jruauM4bSfZg8MdOum-QXzG8j2il5Ujr8Iu5ScBW9naDEOgMZfrkgwdyFjKaoJtTIJUqR8-hFDiQ926C0re9UkguA.L9uMeVM-RfssiA1RTAyQj_ColyIJ3Ca-UXdogWfDKVk&dib_tag=se&keywords=christs+scope+and+scepter&qid=1737550608&sr=8-1
🎙How To Preach Like a Puritan:
https://share.transistor.fm/s/ace50a4b
🎙 Redemptive Historical Homiletics:
https://share.transistor.fm/s/82422c88
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